Manchester United are ‘number one candidate’ for £30m Spanish defender

Manchester United are considered the ‘number one candidate’ for a Spanish defender with a £30 million release clause.

The Reds are looking to make several improvements to their squad this summer following the addition of sporting director Dan Ashworth.

While the main priorities to strengthen are centre-back and centre-forward, other positions also need bolstering this summer.

The left-back position is perhaps the most pressing due to the injury troubles that Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia faced last term. The Dutch fullback did not play a single game during the 2023/24 campaign.

That was one reason Erik ten Hag’s side struggled throughout the season. Sofyan Amrabat and Victor Lindelöf were stationed in the position at points.

United have been linked to a number of left-backs this summer, and Miguel Gutiérrez is the latest. The Girona fullback has impressed since his 2022 move from Real Madrid.

A report from Sport has explained that Los Blancos have the option to buy back the defender for around £6.7 million, but he also has a release clause for around £30 million.

The information added that while several clubs have expressed interest in the 22-year-old, United are considered the ‘number one candidate’ if Gutiérrez was sold abroad.

Importantly, it was claimed that United are not currently willing to pay £30 million for the youngster.

It is likely that these deals are set aside until the club brings in players in their priority positions.

Then, Old Trafford’s leadership must decide on the left-back situation and whether Gutiérrez is the best option.

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